must show some spirit":[18] in the belief, no doubt, if he can manage
such an animal, it will be easy enough to deal with every other horse
besides. And that is just my case. I wish to deal with human beings,
to associate with man in general; hence my choice of wife.[19] I know
full well, if I can tolerate her spirit, I can with ease attach myself
to every human being else.

[18] Lit. "Because I see the man who aims at skill in horsemanship
does not care to own a soft-mouthed, docile animal, but some
restive, fiery creature."

[19] Lit. "being anxious to have intercourse with all mankind, to deal
with every sort of human being, I possess my wife."

A well-aimed argument, not wide of the mark by any means![20] the
company were thinking.

[20] Cf. Plat. "Theaet." 179 C.

Hereupon a large hoop studded with a bristling row of upright
swords[21] was introduced; and into the centre of this ring of knives
and out of it again the girl threw somersaults backwards, forwards,
several times, till the spectators were in terror of some accident;
but with the utmost coolness and without mishap the girl completed her
performance.

[21] See Becker, "Char." p. 101. Cf. Plat. "Symp." 190; "Euthyd." 294.

Here Socrates, appealing to Antisthenes: None of the present company,
I take it, who have watched this spectacle will ever again deny that